Research Focus
I am a mathematics educator in the Graduate School of Education at George Mason University. I teach mathematics methods courses in the Elementary Education Program and mathematics leadership courses for the Mathematics Specialist Masters and PH.D Programs. I direct the Center for Outreach in Mathematics Professional Learning and Educational Technology, COMPLETE, a joint center between the College of Education and the College of Science. My research focuses on using Lesson Study with school based teams to develop mathematics teaching practices and deepen teachers content knowledge through an understanding of children development of mathematical meaning/models and representational fluency; Develop problem-based modeling tasks to promote equitable access to 21st century skills: Creativity, Critical Thinking, Communication and Collaboration for diverse student populations in STEM disciplines.
Current Projects
■ The project goals for SPARK STEM is to develop and deliver an integrated STEM PBL Professional development for upper elementary/middle grades(4-6).
■ Develop STEM based educational programs for students and teachers to solve real-world problems that focus on 21st Century Skills including critical thinking, problem solving, communication, collaboration and creativity, careers, technology and innovation.
■ NSF Awards (1441024): Math Modeling in the Elementary Grades – IMMERSION (Integrating Mathematical Modeling, Experiential Learning and Research through a Sustainable Infrastructure and an Online Network) STEM-C project that works with elementary grades teachers across the country to help them integrate mathematical modeling into their classrooms.
■ Preservice teacher education.
Select Publications
